Are you developing your character or just your products?

I started reading The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People the other day. The author is arguing that it is only by developing our character that we can hope to live a successful and balanced life. He says that public victories (recognition or plaudits at work, being elected to leadership positions in organizations, kids who stay in school and don't do too many drugs) follow private victories (becoming a better listener, developing patience, building strength).

This is extremely reminiscent of Benjamin Franklin's autobiography. As a young man, Ol' Ben decided on a list of foundational virtues. He then spent time practicing them one by one until he felt he had mastered them.

Character, and then results.

I liked this thought a lot, so I sat down and made a list of the things I'm working on to help me grow as a person, not just as an aspiring entrepreneur. It's nice to think that I can be proud of myself for growing and changing as a person even if I can't be proud of myself (yet) for succeeding as an entrepreneur.

This is my list of virtues I'm working on right now:

1. Patience -- Specifically, be a more patient driver. It's tough when there are slowpokes in the fast lane! 😂
2. Self-care -- Go to the gym twice a week.
3. Knowledge -- Read a real book 20 minutes every day.
4. Courtesy -- Remember to say Please and Thank You.
5. Courage -- Acknowledge what I want and go for it even if I feel scared.

What about you? What are you working on personally? And what do you think about developing your character in addition to your product?